Hawaii’s labor laws are designed to protect workers while balancing the needs of employers in the unique economic and social landscape of the Aloha State. Whether you’re an employee seeking to understand your rights or an employer aiming to ensure compliance.
This comprehensive guide covers the essential aspects of Hawaii’s labor laws as of 2025.
Minimum Wage and Pay Standards
As of January 1, 2024, Hawaii’s minimum wage is set at $14.00 per hour. This rate is scheduled to increase to $16.00 per hour on January 1, 2026, and to $18.00 per hour on January 1, 2028.
Tipped Employees
Tipped employees may be paid up to $1.25 less per hour if their combined wages and tips equal at least $21.00 per hour. This provision is in effect through December 31, 2025.
Exemptions
Certain employees are exempt from Hawaii’s minimum wage laws, including:
- Executive, administrative, or professional employees earning at least $4,000 per month
- Outside salespersons
- Agricultural workers
- Domestic workers residing in the employer’s home
- Family members of the employer
Overtime and Work Hours
Under Hawaii’s labor laws, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay at a rate of one and one-half times their regular hourly rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Daily Overtime
There is no daily overtime requirement in Hawaii; overtime is calculated based on the total hours worked in a workweek.
Recordkeeping
Employers must maintain accurate payroll records for at least six years, including details such as hours worked, wages paid, and deductions.
Payment of Wages
Hawaii’s labor laws stipulate that:
- Employees must be paid at least twice monthly on regular paydays designated in advance.
- Wages must be paid in full at the time of discharge or no later than the next working day.
- If an employee quits or resigns, they must be paid no later than the next regular payday, unless they give at least one pay period’s notice, in which case they must be paid on their last day of employment.
Wage Withholding and Deductions
Employers in Hawaii are prohibited from making certain deductions from employees’ wages, including:
- Fines for tardiness
- Cash shortages in registers
- Penalties for breakage
- Losses from dishonoured checks accepted by the employer.
Leave Laws
Family Leave
Under the Hawaii Family Leave Law (HFLL), employees are entitled to up to four weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for the birth or adoption of a child or to care for a family member with a serious health condition. To qualify, employees must have at least six consecutive months of service, and the employer must have 100 or more employees.
Sick Leave and Vacation
Hawaii does not mandate paid sick leave or vacation leave for private-sector employees. However, if an employer provides these benefits, they must comply with the terms outlined in their policies or employment contracts.
Paid Family Leave
As of 2025, Hawaii labor law does not have a paid family leave program. Employees may use accrued paid leave if their employer’s policy allows it.
Prevailing Wages on Public Works Projects
Employees working on state and county government construction projects are entitled to be paid prevailing wages, which are determined based on the type of work and location. These rates are higher than the standard minimum wage and are designed to ensure fair compensation for workers on public projects.
Workers’ Compensation and Temporary Disability Insurance
Workers’ Compensation
Employees who suffer a work-related injury are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, including medical care and wage loss compensation. Employers are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage for all employees, regardless of their status.
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI)
Employees may be eligible for TDI benefits if they are temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury. To qualify, employees must have worked for at least 14 weeks, been paid for at least 20 hours per week, and earned at least $400 during the 52 weeks preceding the disability.
Breastfeeding in the Workplace
Hawaii’s Breastfeeding in the Workplace Act requires employers with one or more employees to provide reasonable break time and a private space (other than a bathroom) for employees to express breast milk. Employers with fewer than 20 employees may be exempt if they can demonstrate that providing such accommodations would impose an undue hardship.
Employment Discrimination Protections
Hawaii prohibits employment discrimination based on race, religion, sex, disability, age, and political affiliation. Employees have the right to file complaints with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission if they believe they have been subjected to discrimination.
Final Paychecks
Upon termination, employees must receive their final paycheck:
- Immediately if discharged
- On the next regular payday if the employee quits or resigns.
Right to Organize
Employees in Hawaii have the right to self-organize and form or join any employee organization for bargaining collectively through representatives of their own choosing. This includes engaging in lawful, concerted activities for mutual aid or protection, free from interference, restraint, or coercion.
Conclusion
Understanding Hawaii’s labor laws is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure compliance and protect rights. By staying informed about the state’s regulations, individuals can navigate the workplace with confidence and fairness. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, it’s advisable to consult the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations or seek legal counsel.
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